"Josie was originally asked to give a testimony in Samoan at one of the major World Youth Day World Youth Day events and had no idea that this would lead to an invitation to share the role of MC.

“When they said they didn’t want to use my testimony in Samoan, I thought ‘Oh well, that’s fine.’ I certainly wasn’t expecting them to then ask me to MC! What an unbelievable privilege!” said Leota. “I will do my very best to represent the young people of Oceania, to share their faith, joy and vitality through my role.”

Indeed, through her testimony, the selection committee felt “her joy over her background – Catholic, Samoan, and Kiwi – was contagious,” said Sr Anna Wray OP. “The depth of Josie’s conviction and dedication to the Christ was evident to us from the beginning of our correspondence with her."